And German international Podolski has continued the tribute by posting a picture on his Instagram account, with an Arsenal shirt featuring the words 'Pat Rice Get Well Soon', alongside the number two - referencing his former role under Arsene Wenger.

While the 28-year-old only joined the club, once Rice had departed, he was keen to address the legendary status that the former favourite has at the Emirates.

Rice dedicated 44 years to the North London club , having played more than 500 times since his joining as an apprentice.

He then became Wenger's assistant in 1996 and was instrumental in the club's Premier League triumphs in 1998, 2002 and 2004 - so much so he was awarded an MBE for his services to sport in the 2013 New Year's Honours List.

The Arsenal boss was deeply saddened by the news, admitting that his fighting spirit, that served him so well during his career, will see him through the toughest battle yet.

Wenger said: "We are in touch with him but I trust his legendary strengths to get over that.

"I'm confident that he still has the fighting spirit he always had to get over that and that he will come out in a successful way."

Welshman Aaron Ramsey, who scored twice against Cardiff on Saturday , later took to his Twitter account to show his support, while a number of former Gunners' players, including Gilberto Silva and Philippe Senderos, also sent their well-wishes to the former number two.